91´«Ã½

Aversa was selected for her outstanding contributions to library education and librarianship and her strong commitment to mentoring students and colleagues.

Aversa, who holds an M.Ln. from Emory University and a Ph.D. from Drexel, came to the University of Alabama School of Library and Information Studies as Director in 2003, after a distinguished career as a library school dean and director at the Catholic University of America and the University of Tennessee, among others. Under her leadership at Alabama, enrollment increased to more than 300 students, the MFA in the Book Arts program was awarded the 2011 Institutional Award for Distinguished Achievement by the American Printing History Association, and the school achieved continuing accreditation from 91´«Ã½ In addition, Aversa instituted the School’s online program and continues to be an enthusiastic supporter.

Under Aversa's leadership, SLIS faculty has achieved an excellent record of publication, community service and professional association participation. Her own impressive record of publication includes books, edited volumes, book chapters, scholarly articles and numerous conference presentations. She has been active in 91´«Ã½ and ALISE for many years and is currently a member of the 91´«Ã½ Committee on Accreditation. Aversa was named Alabama Librarian of the Year in 2011 and received the ALISE award for professional service in 2005.